The Influence of LDPE Content on the Mechanical Properties of HDPE/LDPE Blends

Abstract

Mechanical properties of blend of high density polyethylene (HDPE) and low density polyethylene (LDPE) have been investigated. Four different HDPE/LDPE blends with various ratio (80/20,60/40,40/60, and 20/80) were prepared by melt-mixing technique using mini-twin-extruder at 200 ᵒC and 90rpm. Characterization tests including tensile and impact strength tests as well as hardness have been performed in order to better understand the behavior of these blends. Information on ductility and toughness were obtained from the stress-strain curves of HDPE/LDPE blends. Mechanical properties were varied according to LDPE content. Blends-rich with LDPE showed to have lower strength and hardness and higher elongation, impact strength, ductility and toughness than blends-rich with HDPE. Blend with the composition (HDPE (40)/LDPE (60)) showed comparatively better overall mechanical properties.